Importance

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Abstract

A bone fastener including an expandable member having an axial channel and an elongated element insertable into the axial channel is described. The expandable member is configured to be insertible into a bore drilled in bone. The distal end of the expandable member also may include a structure for axially releasing the expandable member from an emplacement device that places the expandable member into a bone opening. In one embodiment, the structure for axially releasing includes a frangible membrane capable of being severed from the expandable member during emplacement of the expandable member in a bone opening. A rivet for coupling an object to bone for use with an expandable member is also described. The distal end of the elongated element is shaped into a radially projecting portion adapted for engagement with a washer that contacts the object to be coupled. The washer, having upper and lower surfaces and a bore defined between the surfaces, is disposed around a portion of the shaft. The elongated element is adapted for movement independent of the washer since the radial projection of the element has a different radius of curvature than the washer. An apparatus for use within an endoscope is described. The apparatus includes an elongated, substantially hollow holding means for emplacing a bone fastener of the invention in a bone opening. The expandable member includes a structure for axially releasing the expandable member from the holding means. A method of attaching soft tissue to bone is also described. The invention also includes a surgical fastener kit.

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First Claim